SOLSTICE Returns to Mount Auburn Cemetery with New Light and Sound Installations for 2024

Cambridge, MA (November 13, 2024) – This December, experience the wonder of winter nights reimagined at Mount Auburn Cemetery’s SOLSTICE: Reflections on Winter Light, running from December 7-21, 2024. Presented by the Friends of Mount Auburn Cemetery and brought to life by artists MASARY, this outdoor, evening event has become a must-see tradition in the Greater Boston area, offering immersive light and sound artwork installations that blend art, remembrance, and nature in a uniquely meaningful way during the winter solstice.

SOLSTICE represents an evolution of the beloved Candle Lighting Ceremony, which has been a part of Mount Auburn’s history since 1992. Originally designed as a time for remembrance with invited speakers, live music, and the communal reading of “We Remember Them” by Sylvan Kamens and Rabbi Jack Riemer, the event was reimagined in 2020 with the innovative partnership of the Boston-based artist collective MASARY. The collaboration has led to an inspired transformation, preserving the spirit of the original event while infusing it with modern, interactive, large-scale art.

This year’s SOLSTICE will feature three newly commissioned artworks, including two projection-mapped installations on the historic Bigelow Chapel facade and an interactive light installation of over 1,000 lights in Hazel Dell. Returning favorites, such as Eclipse and Hortus Gateway, will invite guests to explore and reflect amidst Mount Auburn’s beautiful landscape. An extended Lantern Walk, which received glowing praise last year, will also be featured, providing an opportunity to traverse and explore the illuminated grounds and monuments of the historic active cemetery, creating space for personal connection and quiet reflection.

"Mount Auburn’s vision has always centered on creating a place that embodies solace, inspiration, and community connection,” said Matthew Stephens, President and CEO of Mount Auburn Cemetery. “SOLSTICE offers a moment of reflection dovetailed with inspiration that we have never seen anywhere else, inviting guests to engage with art, nature, and each other in an experience of beauty and contemplation. This annual tradition at our National Historic Landmark exemplifies how Mount Auburn serves as more than an active cemetery—it’s a resource for all, fostering comfort and discovery as we open our gates and hearts to the community.”

“This year is the culmination of four years of our collaboration creating through passionate research and media artwork practice. These artworks are specific to Mount Auburn and this winter solstice celestial moment which can only be approached in this place.”  said Sam Okerstrom-Lang, Principal Artist and Co-founder of MASARY. “Whether it be the remembrance of a loved one, a spiritual reconciliation to our place in local nature and the cosmic universe, or a quiet contemplation with oneself; the artworks and tradition are intended to hold these profound sentiments with compassion and allow a sincere personal experience that is unique to Mount Auburn.”

Other new additions this year include a craft beverage pavilion catered by Small Change Brewing Company, featuring a curated selection of beer and wine, including a special edition SOLSTICE brew. Returning partner Ovenbird Café will offer an array of sweet and savory treats, alongside warm non-alcoholic beverages with gluten-free and vegan options.

Visitors can also stop by the Story Chapel Gift Shop for seasonal items perfect for fostering reflection or gifting loved ones, including candles, books, stationery, a MASARY pressed vinyl of past SOLSTICE artwork Phase Garden, and decor that captures the themes and essence of connection and renewal.

Public parking for SOLSTICE will be available in an off-site lot, located just a five-minute walk from the Cemetery’s Mount Auburn Street gate, enhancing guest convenience and safety while allowing more attendees to experience this special event that saw over 11,000 guests last year.

Mount Auburn Cemetery was established in 1831. Within a forested landscape nestled between Cambridge and Watertown, the founders created an extraordinary place, one where the living mourner could come to find solace and the public could come to find inspiration. Recognized as one of the most significant designed landscapes in the country, Mount Auburn was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975 and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2003. 

MASARY Studios is a Boston-based, transdisciplinary artist collective founded in 2015. The studio's practice includes carefully-crafted facade projection-mapped video, technology and materials fabrication, the expansive use of animation to create site-specific installations, and more. Mount Auburn is proud to be collaborating with the MASARY team on SOLSTICE for a fifth year.  

During the 11-day SOLSTICE run, Mount Auburn Cemetery looks forward to welcoming thousands of guests for a chance to experience the landscape, connect with the community, and interact with the bespoke artworks.  For tickets and more information visit www.mountauburnsolstice.org

SOLSTICE
Presented by the Friends of Mount Auburn Cemetery
At Mount Auburn Cemetery
Created by MASARY
Event Dates: Dec 7-8, Dec 10-11, Dec 13-15, Dec 17-18, Dec 20-21
www.mountauburnsolstice.com

Media Contacts:                                           
Jovanny Rosado
Denterlein
jrosado@denterlein.com
773-490-8469